State pension age rise to see Britons wait longer for free bus pass

Those who are of state pension age are eligible for the free bus pass, which reduces their travel expenses significantly. As it stands, people are able to access their state pension once they reach 66 years of age. However, this is set to increase in the coming years which means claimants will have to wait longer to get freebie benefits.

By 2028, the retirement age threshold is set to reach 67 under current Government proposals.

It is set to increase to 68 between 2044 and 2046. It should be noted these figures are dependent on life expectancy predictions and are subject to change.

The public are notified of these changes ahead of time so they can adequately prepare for their retirement.

One of the factors over 60s will need to consider is that they may have to wait longer for various ‘freebie’ benefits.

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Older Britons will likely have to wait an extra year for their free bus pass as a result of the pending state pension age increase.

This is likely to be the case in many places in England, however, those resident in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and London can typically expect a free bus pass at aged 60.

This travel concession was created to help over 60s and over with the rising costs of using public transport and getting around.

With the cost of living crisis particularly harming the finances of pensioners, this benefit could be very useful for households in the months ahead.

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As well as this, a similar disabled person’s bus pass scheme is available which entitles those eligible to free travel.

Anyone who is not entitled to the older person’s bus pass may be able to claim the disabled equivalent if they meet the qualifying criteria.

Those looking to claim this support can log onto the Government’s website to find their local authority’s contact details.

Applications for the free bus pass can be carried out through a state pensioner’s local council.

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Mr Selby explained: “For those on very low incomes, increasing the state pension age by just a year can be enough to push people into serious financial turmoil.

“And while there are ways to replace at least part of this lost income – either via in-work benefits, from your private pension pot or by working longer – the evidence suggests lots of people are either unable or unwilling to go down this road.

“As a result, millions of people saw their state pension income plummet by £142 per week on average, or over £7,000 during the year.

“Even taking into account increases in private income, on average net income plummeted by £108 per week.

“For anyone already struggling to make ends meet, missing out on thousands of pounds in pension income will inevitably force them into making painful budgeting choices in order to survive.”